Newton Abbot: The town that delivers
Newton Abbot Neighbourhood Plan – Growing Well in Newton Abbot
Newton Abbot Town Council is reviewing the town’s Neighbourhood Plan. This plan will help shape how the town grows and develops over the coming years.
We want to hear from local people about:
- What you value
- What could be improved
- What new development should contribute to the town
Your ideas and experiences will help create planning policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of everyone who lives and works in Newton Abbot.
What is the Neighbourhood Plan?
The Newton Abbot Neighbourhood Development Plan is a community‑led planning document that guides what development should look like in our town. It sits alongside the Teignbridge Local Plan 2020–2040, meaning it has to be taken into account when planning applications are considered. It cannot change what the Teignbridge Local Plan says about development of new homes in Newton Abbot, but it can help to:
- Protect Newton Abbot’s character and heritage
- Influence the design and quality of new homes and buildings
- Support walking, cycling and sustainable transport
- Promote greener, climate‑resilient development
- Shape community facilities, green spaces and public areas
The Neighbourhood Plan goes through a referendum process, meaning that is voted on by residents. It reflects local priorities — not just district‑wide policy.
Why are we reviewing the Plan now?
Teignbridge District Council adopted its new Local Plan in May 2026. The original Neighbourhood Plan was published in 2016. To remain effective, our Neighbourhood Plan must now be updated so it:
- Aligns with the new strategic policies
- Responds to recent town centre regeneration work
- Reflects current community priorities
- Includes housing site allocations
- Strengthens policies on climate resilience, accessibility and
- Addresses the needs of all those living in the town, including youth and the town’s elderly population.
This review is our chance to shape how Newton Abbot develops — to grow well, in a way that supports a thriving, connected and sustainable town.
Ways to Get Involved
Over the coming months, there will be several opportunities to take part:
We want to hear from as many people as possible:
- Online survey – quick and easy way to share your views
Share your views in our short online survey here https://forms.gle/YutXHJfYsu536e246)
- Public drop‑in events – meet the team, view maps and proposals, give feedback
- Themed workshops – we can visit your group, and run a fun and engaging session talking about the issues in Newton Abbot. Any group who takes part in this opportunity will be entered into a prize draw to win a £50 voucher for their group
- Young people’s engagement – tailored activities and surveys for children and teenagers
- Written comments – email or letter submissions welcomed. Send your comments to kate.green@newtonsplace.org, or drop into Newton’s Place on Wolborough Street with your comments.
Opportunities to get involved will be published on the Town Council’s Facebook page.
What happens next?
October/November 2026 - Listening phase – surveys, workshops and drop‑ins
December 2026 - Drafting the updated Plan – using your feedback and new evidence
January 2027 - Formal consultation – public review of the draft Plan
Spring/summer 2027 - Independent examination – ensuring the Plan meets national requirements and a Local referendum – residents vote on whether to adopt the updated Plan
Once adopted, the updated Neighbourhood Plan will guide development in Newton Abbot for the next 15–20 years.
If you would like to get involved, or would like to book a workshop please contact Kate Green via kate.green@newtonsplace.org
You can take part as much or as little as you like — every comment helps us understand what matters to you and what “Growing Well” should mean for Newton Abbot.
Together, we can shape a Newton Abbot that grows well — a town that is vibrant, sustainable and designed for everyone.
Click here to view the full Neighbourhood Development Plan
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